title: [Sickness funds' activities for early detection, prevention and health promotion in depressive disorders].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We analyzed programs managed by the ten biggest social health insurance companies in Germany that aim at early detection, prevention, and promotion of health in depression.
  
  
  METHODS
  We conducted interviews with the responsible managers and studied relevant web sites.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The content of these programs ranges from internet-based offers to relaxation techniques. There is very little information publicly available on the results of these programs; the same holds true for the number of participants, efficiency, and cooperation with physicians.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  There is a strong need to investigate results and efficiency of the programs.
authors.affiliation: FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management gemeinnützige GmbH, Essen.
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Thielscher
authors.affiliation: FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management gemeinnützige GmbH, Essen.
authors.forename: Madita
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Effinghausen
mesh_terms: D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D018868:Insurance, Disability / Q000458:organization & administration*; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D009313:National Health Programs; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care